The Council for Entrepreneurial Development has signed on as a network partner with Microsoft to help promote the software giant’s .

The Microsoft initiative offers entrepreneurs and startup companies access to software and other tools with no upfront costs.

“Microsoft BizSpark helps remove many of the barriers of entry to the software development tools and technologies, and market resources that are critical components of launching a viable business,” said Joan Siefert Rose, president of CED. “CED is committed to helping entrepreneurs and startups take full advantage of BizSpark to transform their ideas into sustainable, dynamic businesses.”

Interested firms can enroll through the CED by contacting Dhruv Patel at (919) 549-7500 extension 118.